Richard Shirley Parkway sign unveiled – Anderson County Council joined state officials in the renaming of the East-West Parkway with an official reveal held Saturday, July 18 at Francis M. Crowder Park, located at the corner of Hobson Road and the East-West Parkway, in Anderson. Pictured (l-r): Shirley’s wife Rachelle Shirley, Shirley’s sister Pamela Shirley Hilburn. After the ceremonial unveiling of the sign the family went to the Parkway and unveiled both sings at both ends of the parkway.
East-West Parkway renamed Richard A. Shirley Parkway
In recognition of Richard Shirley’s extraordinary service and dedication, the Anderson County Legislative Delegation recently approved and agreed that the East-West Parkway should be renamed the Richard A. Shirley Parkway.
Anderson County Council joined state officials in the renaming with an official reveal held Saturday, July 18 at Francis M. Crowder Park, located at the corner of Hobson Road and the East-West Parkway, in Anderson.
The designation serves as a lasting tribute to a man whose leadership and service helped shape the Anderson County community for generations.
Richard Shirley devoted his life to serving the people of Anderson County through decades of dedicated public service.
He began his public service career in 1978 as a member of Anderson City Council before serving as Mayor of the City of Anderson from 1998 to 2006. In 2010, he was elected Anderson County Clerk of Court, a position he faithfully held until his passing on December 8, 2022.
A graduate of T.L. Hanna High School and Presbyterian College, Shirley was known for his unwavering commitment to his community, his leadership, and his passion for public service. His legacy continues to be reflected in the lasting impact he made on Anderson County and the citizens he proudly served.
“From his years on City Council and as Mayor to his service as Clerk of Court, Richard Shirley served with honor, treated everyone with respect, and dedicated his career to making our community a better place. Renaming the Parkway in his honor ensures that future generations will remember a man whose leadership and devotion helped shape Anderson County for the better,” said Councilman Chris Sullivan, District 1.
